How do I book an award ticket with a stopover?

The booking process varies by program. Some airlines like Alaska and Air Canada allow you to book stopovers online using their multi-city search tool. Others, like Flying Blue and Turkish Airlines, require you to call their reservation center. When booking by phone, be clear that you want to include a stopover and have your desired routing ready.

Can I add a stopover to an existing award ticket?

Generally, no. Stopovers must be booked as part of the original itinerary. Changes to add a stopover later would typically require canceling and rebooking the entire award, subject to availability and any applicable change/cancellation fees.

Are there any restrictions on where I can have a stopover?

Yes, most programs have some restrictions. Common limitations include: stopovers must be at airline hubs (Emirates in Dubai, Turkish in Istanbul), stopovers must be along a logical routing path, or stopovers aren't allowed within the same region. Each program has its own specific rules, so check the detailed terms before planning.

How long can my stopover be?

This varies by program. Most allow stopovers of unlimited duration within the ticket validity period (typically one year from the date of issue). However, some programs like Singapore Airlines limit stopovers to 30 days. Check the specific program rules for any time limitations.

Do I pay additional taxes and fees for a stopover?

Sometimes. While the mileage cost may not increase (or may increase only slightly, as with Aeroplan's 5,000-point fee), you might incur additional airport taxes and fees depending on the stopover location. Some countries charge departure taxes that would apply when you continue your journey after the stopover.

Which transfer partners work with these airline programs?

Many of these programs partner with transferable points currencies: Flying Blue partners with Amex, Capital One, Chase, and Citi; Aeroplan partners with Amex, Capital One, and Chase; Emirates partners with Amex, Capital One, Chase, and Citi; and Singapore KrisFlyer partners with Amex, Capital One, Chase, and Citi. Alaska Atmos Rewards partners with Bilt Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy.